Sex, Sexuality and Gender Identity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Online Survey

University of Queensland (Australia) researchers, Kat Stork-Brett, Dr. Fiona Barlow and Dr. Matthew Hornsey, are conducting a comprehensive survey of sexuality and gender identity in Autism Spectrum Disorders in collaboration with Dr. Tony Attwood.  By taking part, you could win your very own iPad 2, or one of numerous $20.00 Amazon.com or iTunes vouchers.

To date, there is very little hard evidence about sex and sexuality in ASD.  We know that people with Asperger’s Syndrome invariably have some degree of difficulty with interpersonal communication and with reading social cues.  As a result, it is common for them to feel lonely, isolated and to struggle with forming meaningful and lasting relationships with others.  A common misperception is that people on the spectrum do not WANT or need connections with others.  The truth is, that many with Asperger's Syndrome not only form close personal relationships, but also marry and have children.  For those who have not found “true love”, it is not for want of trying to seek out connectedness in their life.

Whether they are in relationships or not, many Aspergians (and their loved ones) have unanswered questions about themselves, and most have experienced confusion and insecurity around sex, sexuality, and gender.  This research is an important step in providing some answers and we hope you will be a part of helping to revolutionise our understanding of sexuality and gender in ASD.  The value of your contribution is far-reaching.  There is a good chance that the results of this study will go towards improved clinical practice and facilitate much-needed acceptance of those on the spectrum.  Most importantly, the findings will almost certainly contribute to reducing the victimisation, isolation, Depression and Anxiety that people with Asperger's Syndrome (and other ASDs) frequently experience.

Although the focus of this research is on how individuals with an ASD experience sex, sexuality and gender, you do NOT need to have had a diagnosis of ASD to complete this online survey.  Anyone is free to participate, however, due to the graphic sexual nature of the content, you do need to be aged 18 years or older to take part!  In addition to having the chance to win one of the fantastic prizes on offer, including an iPad2, you can opt to receive a full report of the main findings once the survey responses have been analysed.  If you have any questions or comments about the study, please feel free to e-mail the principal researcher, Kat Stork-Brett, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Survey Link:  http://exp.psy.uq.edu.au/sexy